Stadium
Thirteen years ago today the Columbus Crew opened Crew Stadium before a sold-out crowd of 24,741, the first MLS stadium built specifically for soccer in the United States as the Crew beat the New England Revolution 2-0. Jeff Cunningham scored the first goal in Crew Stadium history beating Revs goalkeeper Walter Zenga in the 10th minute. Stern John added the second goal in the 59th minute.
What is your favorite memory of Crew Stadium? Leave a comment below.
In an effort to spruce up the United States' first Major League Soccer-specific stadium, LED field boards have been installed at Crew Stadium ahead of Saturday's home opener against the Montreal Impact. The boards are just one of many upgrades for the 2012 MLS season.
"I think it's going to be a fantastic addition to the fan experience at Crew Stadium," team president and general manager Mark McCullers said.
The boards will also increase the Crew's sponsorship opportunities in conjunction with the team's new television deal with Fox Sports Ohio.
"With our Fox Sports Ohio deal, it's going to give our sponsors and our corporate partners the best possible platform to deliver their brand message," McCullers continued. "There's a lot of flexibility, it marries well with the increased distribution we have at Fox Sports Ohio and gives the sponsors a great platform."
In addition to the new LED field boards, new menu items can be found at Crew Stadium's concession stands along with updated concourses and plaza experiences.